Weller stagecoach - A thrilling event of pioneer days

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Sketch reproduced from the O'Keefe's Brewing Co., Ltd.

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In February 1840 the Governor-General of the Canadas, Mr. Poulett Thompson (later Lord Sydenham), had to make a hurried trip from Toronto to Montreal intending, it is said, (if he arrived in time), to reprieve a murderer. The only winter travel was by stagecoach, and William Weller of Cobourg operated the Royal Mail Line through the country. Weller stated that he would complete the journey at five times the usual speed, and made a side bet of 1000 pounds that he would cover the 360 miles in 34 hours. Changes of horses were arranged at 15-mile intervals, and a bed made in the sleigh for the Governor. Weller, considering it a great honour mounted the box himself and drove the entire distance. The Governor gave him 100 pounds and a suitable engraved gold watch, and he collected his 1000 pound wager as well, for he sped into Montreal just 33 hours and 40 minutes after leaving Toronto, a record which stood to the end of staging days.

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